Are you a fan of the hit TV show “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia”? If so, you’ve probably heard the iconic phrase “Rum Ham” uttered by Frank Reynolds. This delectable dish has gained quite a reputation among fans of the show, and now you can bring the spirit of Sunny to your own kitchen! In this article, we’ll guide you step by step on how to make the perfect Rum Ham, complete with a homemade brown sugar rum glaze that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients. You’ll need a fully cooked ham, preferably bone-in for extra flavor. Additionally, gather brown sugar, dark rum, Dijon mustard, pineapple juice, ground cloves, and a touch of salt and pepper.
Prepare the Glaze
To achieve that deliciously sticky and sweet glaze, it’s time to mix the ingredients. In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, dark rum, Dijon mustard, pineapple juice, ground cloves, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
Glaze and Bake the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large baking dish. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the entire surface of the ham with the prepared glaze. Don’t be shy with it, as this is what will give the ham its signature flavor.
Cooking Time
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your ham. As a general rule of thumb, allow for about 20 minutes per pound of ham. Remember to occasionally baste the ham with the glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.
Basting and Broiling
About 10 minutes before the ham is fully cooked, remove the foil to let the glaze caramelize and create a beautiful golden brown crust. Increase the oven temperature to broil and carefully monitor the ham to avoid burning. Baste the ham one last time with the remaining glaze for that extra burst of flavor.
Resting and Slicing
Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), it’s time to take it out of the oven. Allow the ham to rest for 15 minutes before slicing to let the juices redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness. Slice the Rum Ham into thick, succulent pieces and get ready to indulge in a true It’s Always Sunny delicacy.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your Rum Ham is ready, it’s time to think about presentation and serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with classic holiday sides like roasted potatoes, green bean casserole, or cheesy mac and cheese. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs or pineapple slices for that extra touch of elegance.
Share the Spirit of Sunny
Whether you’re planning a themed party, a gathering of fellow It’s Always Sunny fans, or simply want to try something new in the kitchen, making Rum Ham is a surefire way to add excitement to your meal. Give it a go and share the spirit of Sunny with your friends and family. Cheers!
